How to Start a Worker Co-Op in the Food Sector in LA

Ernest Johnson III (Urban Planning) in partnership with L.A. Co-op Lab

L.A. Co-op Lab works with cooperatives in the food sector and are interested in the process of how these cooperatives could acquire their own brick and mortar in the City of Los Angeles. I developed a land use analysis to describe the opportunities for potential restaurants within the city of Los Angeles. We conducted a case assessment of local restaurant owners to forecast the potential conflicts an aspiring group may face. Once collected, in conjunction with the resources provided by Los Angeles City Planning and the Department of Bureau and Street and Services a toolkit was created. The goal of the deliverable is to present a conclusive examination of the zoning where restaurants could be applicable and the complimentary facets of permitting, fees, parking, and community cohesiveness. I hope this tool kit is a catalyst for more equitable representation within the food sector in Los Angeles.